Opinion divided on Southport homes plan

PLANS to build 168 homes on the site of a former Virginia Street sweet factory will be ruled on by councillors tonight.

If proposals by Bellway Homes get the go-ahead, the empty Chewits (Leaf UK) factory will be torn down and replaced by a development including 106 apartments, 62 family homes and commercial space.

A green light to the scheme could also lead to a range of changes to the surrounding environment, including measures to keep passing traffic to 20mph and the renovation of Victoria footbridge.

Ward councillors have signalled their support for Bellway’s scheme, citing a much-needed boost for affordable housing.

But opinions among existing nearby residents appear mixed.

The announcement in early summer of initial plans for the four-acre plot saw a host of concerns voiced by residents, including fears of heavily increased traffic congestion.

A report to go before Sefton’s planning committee lists ways in which Bellway has adjusted its original plans after a round of community consultation.

To counter accusations the development will cause traffic chaos, there will now only be one main access point for cars, on the first bend on the approach from Scarisbrick New Road.

There has also been an increase in the overall number of off-street parking spaces to 171.

The report to councillors cites traffic surveys in support of the view the area’s roads network will be able to cope with the increased burden, but it states that Virginia Street (between Scarisbrick New Road and Ash Street), Hodson Street and Mill Street will all need to see traffic calming measures.

Mark Richardson, who lives in Virginia Street with his wife Mary, said: “I am concerned about the aesthetics.

“We are looking at very modern town houses in what is very much a Victorian street.”

Mr Richardson, a 38-year-old area manager for a pub chain, said he was already concerned about speeding in Virginia Street.

Yet he added: “I would love to see the site developed into housing.”

Four nearby residents have written to the council opposing the plans.

Carl Brown, a 27-year-old IT worker who lives in Hargreaves Street, said: “I would like to see it rejected but I do not think it will happen.

“The main reason is still the amount of properties on-site.”

Cllr Mike Booth, a Kew ward representative, stressed that concessions to the concerns of residents had followed Bellway’s initial consultation.

“If there are any further concerns about the plans they will be picked up at the planning meeting,” he added.

“The development will help to provide homes for families that are struggling to get onto the housing ladder.”